RESEARCH

Effect of Stimulation by Foliage Plant Display Images on Prefrontal Cortex Activity: A Comparison with Stimulation using Actual Foliage Plants

Viewing real foliage plants significantly increased prefrontal cortex activity compared to images of the same plants, indicating stronger neurophysiological responses. Despite this difference, both stimuli elicited similar feelings of comfort and relaxation, suggesting that real plants may offer additional psychological benefits beyond subjective emotional responses.
Print Form

Summary

This study explores how viewing real foliage plants versus images of the same plants affects brain activity and emotional responses. Researchers measured changes in oxy-hemoglobin concentrations in the prefrontal cortex, which is associated with emotional regulation, while participants viewed either real dracaena plants or high-resolution images of these plants. The results showed that viewing real plants significantly increased prefrontal cortex activity compared to viewing images. However, participants reported similar feelings of comfort and relaxation for both stimuli, though real plants were perceived as more natural.

The findings suggest that real foliage plants may provide unique psychological benefits not replicated by images, despite eliciting comparable subjective emotional responses. These results highlight the potential advantages of incorporating real plants into homes and workplaces to promote mental well-being and stress relief. Future research could investigate whether factors like plant type, size, or quantity further enhance these effects.

Link

Igarashi, M., Song, C., Ikei, H., & Miyazaki, Y. (2015). Effect of stimulation by foliage plant display images on prefrontal cortex activity: A comparison with stimulation using actual foliage plants. J. Neuroimaging, 25(1), 127-130.

 

Other Recommended Research

Indoor Planter Box Herb Garden

Participants plant a variety of herbs in an indoor planter box such as the JASMA Healthcare Planter, engaging their senses through tactile and olfactory exploration while learning about plant care, spacing, and the benefits of indoor herb gardening.

Gamers Themed Container Garden Design

Participants create a small garden planter themed after their favourite video games.

Plant Needs Reflections

Participants are asked to consider the essential needs of plants while drawing parallels between these necessities and our own human needs.

‘Into the Wild’: A meta-synthesis of talking therapy in natural outdoor spaces

This Meta-synthesis highlights the benefits of holding therapy sessions in nature, which can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance emotional well-being. While outdoor therapy offers unique advantages, such as greater openness and connection with nature, it also requires careful consideration of client suitability and professional training.

“Connecting people and the earth”: the occupational experience of people with different capabilities participating in an inclusive horticultural social enterprise

This thesis examines how a gardening-based social enterprise helps people of all abilities by providing meaningful work, social connections, and a sense of belonging. While it highlights the benefits of inclusion and community participation, it also points out challenges like funding and governance that need to be addressed for long-term success.

‘The nourishing soil of the soul’: The role of horticultural therapy in promoting well-being in community-dwelling people with dementia

Gardening can help people with dementia feel more active, connected, and less lonely by improving their physical and mental well-being. The article highlights the need for more accessible gardening programs in the community to support social engagement and a better quality of life.

Report

Contains abusive or derogatory content
Contains mature or sensitive content
Contains misleading or false information
Contains spam, fake content or potential malware
Harassment or bullying behavior

Block Member?

Please confirm you want to block this member.

You will no longer be able to:

  • See blocked member's posts
  • Mention this member in posts
  • Invite this member to groups
  • Message this member
  • Add this member as a connection

Please note: This action will also remove this member from your connections and send a report to the site admin. Please allow a few minutes for this process to complete.

Report

You have already reported this .